DAYTON -- On a cold night like Tuesday night, you're going to want to take a few more steps to make sure you car starts up in the morning.

"I would warm my car up, but usually I'm going to be late, said AJ O'Malley, "So I have to jump in and go as fast as I can."

O'Malley is an example of what you shouldn't do in the morning.

"I always get up in the morning, go out and start it 15 minutes early," said Lori Scothorn of Miamisburg.

"Sometimes people just jump in, turn on their car and just go," continued Brad Hamilton at Carl's Body Shop. "You need time to let that warm up, your fluids are much thicker, worked around before you take off."

Brad Hamilton said the obvious things to remember are checking your oil and your coolant, which will help maintain proper temperature of your engine and protect its life.

We found there's much more than just routine maintenance. You can also put a blanket over your car batter, as long as you don't forget to take it off in the morning!

"Batteries are weaker in the winter time actually," Hamilton continued. "Any extreme temperatures is horrible on batteries, too hot or too cold."

Also, keep an eye on your gas tank. You want to keep it full so the vapors help start the engine.

"As long as you don't go down below a quarter tank, you should be good, fuel actually lubricates your fuel pump," Hamilton added.

Batteries are one of the most common things to go dead. If you're in the market for a new one, Brad Hamilton suggests you ask for one with the highest amount of cold cranking amps.Tips To Keep Your Car Running in the Cold

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